Winter Activities

Alpine skiing

The Vosges is the largest French ski area north of the Alps. There are a number of comprehensively-equipped and fun resorts which are suitable for all levels of skier. The resorts include La Bresse (50 Kms of piste), Geradmer (40 Kms of piste), Lac Blanc and Le Markstein plus other smaller resorts.

Ski passes are cheaper than most Alpine resorts (and the queues shorter)! The average ski pass for an adult is approximately €22 per day. Discounts are available for groups, children or for bookings of 3 days or more. All of the above resorts have snow cannons and offer floodlit-skiing two evenings a week.

Cross-country (Nordic) skiing

If you prefer cross-country skiing there are miles of scenic trails through the tree-lined valleys and ridges of the Vosges Mountains. This not only enables you to enjoy the beauty of the region in winter but is also considered one of the best cardiovascular activities! The Route du Crêtes  provides a trail of 50 Kms for those who would like a challenge.

Snowboarding

Enjoy the snowboard park of the La Bresse ski area with off-piste boarding as well!

Snowshoeing

If you want to immerse yourself in the picturesque winter landscape why not try snow shoes and take a guided walk.

Summer Activities

Mountain Biking

The Vosges has more than 1000 Kms of marked and graded mountain bike trails. From gentle rides along the valleys to expert category technical rides. Most tracks are loops which allow you to start and finish at the same location. If you prefer to stay on the tarmac then there are numerous quiet lanes to be explored.

Mountain bike hire is available locally and can be booked in advance for you.

Road cycling

For those of you who prefer to stay on tarmac there is an almost limitless choice of routes and for those who wish to test themselves against the mountain roads there are many Cols (mountains) which can be climbed. Approximately every third year the Tour de France passes over one of the local Col's.

Hiking

For those who enjoy nature and being able to get away from the crowds and the noise of traffic head into the unspoilt and un-crowded beauty of the Vosges mountains. Discover picturesque mountain lakes, natural forests. The Vosges has numerous marked trails which allow you to follow circular routes, many are graded for difficulty, distance and time.

Horse riding

A perfect way of exploring the mountains, lessons are available at an English run stables along with treks into the mountains.

Fishing

Fishing permits may be purchased for many of the local lakes and rivers during season. 14 day permits are approximately €30 per person.

Swimming

Two of the local mountain lakes at Xonrupt Longemer and Gérardmer are suitable for swimming, and other water related activities.

Watersports

At Lac Gérardmer sailing, windsurfing and canoeing lessons and equipment hire are available. The lake is approximately 0.8km wide by 2.5km in length.

Rock Climbing

Rock climbing is also available and may be booked through one of the "extreme" sports centres.

Aerial Runway

For the more adventurous there is an aerial runway Gérardmer on which speeds of up to 100kms per hour can be achieved!

Summer Luge

Two of the ski resorts operate summer Luges which are fibreglass tracks with wheeled sledges which you can speed down through bends and tunnels!

White Water rafting and Kayaking

During the summer months white water rafting expeditions and kayaking are also available.

Go-Carting

10km away there is a Go Cart track for those who prefer their adventure to be motorised!

Moto Cross

For those who prefer two wheeled  motorised adventure their is a Moto Cross school located approximately 25Kms away near La Bresse.